Talk Community Newsletter 23.10.25
Baton of Hope – A Look Back in Photos
Herefordshire’s Baton of Hope event was a truly unforgettable day, and now you can relive some of the highlights through our online photo gallery!
From the inspiring Baton Bearers who carried the message of hope through the city, to the wonderful Animals of Hope crafted by local volunteers, and the touching messages written by school children across the county, the day was filled with connection, creativity and compassion.
To continue the baton’s legacy, we’re keeping the webpage open to showcase photos from the day, highlight important information, and give thanks to the baton bearers, local organisations, community groups, schools, volunteers, and members of the public who made it so special.
You can also sign the Workplace Pledge and access information and resources to promote suicide awareness and prevention.
Explore the gallery and resources on the Talk Community Directory.
Small Sparks: a microgrant scheme to support community-led projects
The Small Sparks fund offers grants of up to £1,000 to fund small scale projects that bring people together, build local connections, and strengthen community resilience. Example activities could include creating a community garden, or shared space, running a neighbourhood event or starting a local club. Applications are invited from residents and informal groups, local community organisations, clubs, or groups.
Projects should be community-led, based in Herefordshire and delivered by 28th February 2026. The fund is being delivered in partnership with Herefordshire Community Foundation and is funded through the UK Shared Prosperity Fund (UKSPF).
For more information and details of how to apply, please visit the Herefordshire Community Foundation website.
Warm Homes Local Grant funding for Herefordshire residents
Residents can now apply for the Warm Homes Local Grant scheme.
The aim of the scheme, is to improve as many fuel poor homes as possible, helping to reduce energy bills for the occupants, and cut carbon emissions. The scheme aims to support low-income Herefordshire households living in the least energy efficient homes.
The Warm Homes Local Grant will follow a whole house approach. This means ensuring that the building has appropriate windows, doors and insulation before looking at heating systems.
For full details of the scheme and to apply visit the Herefordshire Council website.
Halo Leisure – Feel Good For Life Sessions
Halo’s Feel Good For Life Programme provides leisure opportunities for people living with dementia, depression or loneliness. The aim of the sessions is to create a safe, supportive environment with specially trained staff, encouraging attendees to have fun, boost their mood, socialise and make new friends whilst improving motor skills to improve brain function. And even better news, is that carers can come along free of charge!
There are currently opportunities to join the programme in Hereford and Leominster and the sessions cost just £2.50 with complimentary refreshments included.
If you or someone you care for is interested in attending please visit the Halo website for details of how to register and await confirmation of a place before attending. If transport is a barrier to attending, help may be available – please contact 07977 946989 to find out more details.
Cut it Out – FREE Domestic Abuse Awareness Training
Free Domestic Abuse Awareness and signposting sessions are available in Hereford, Ledbury and Leominster.
The ‘Cut it Out’ initiative aims to help professionals recognise the signs of domestic abuse, whilst raising awareness of where they can signpost clients to get help, and importantly give professionals the confidence to start that difficult conversation. The training can be received by any professional who encounters the public within their role.
To find out more, or to book your fully funded training please visit the Eventbrite page to find your local training session.
Pension Credit Week of Action: The Credit that keeps giving
This year’s Pension Credit Week of Action runs from 27th October to 2nd November.
Pension Credit does more than provide direct financial help – it can unlock a range of support that could save eligible pensioners hundreds of pounds each year. People of State Pension age may be eligible for Pension Credit even if they have modest savings, a retirement income or own their own home.
Visit our latest news article on the Talk Community Directory to find out more. To calculate your eligibility, please visit the GOV.UK website.
What’s new on the directory?
Autumn’s settling in and it’s the perfect time to get creative, connect with others, and plan something to look forward to! This week’s new additions to the Talk Community Directory include a mix of social groups, creative clubs, and inspiring events across Herefordshire.
Herefordshire Green Open Homes
Herefordshire Expedition Group
Our socials are a great way to keep in touch with what’s on too, whether you’re
Have you heard of Shared Lives?
Our Lives get better when they’re shared
Herefordshire Shared Lives is a Care Quality Commission (CQC) registered service provided by Herefordshire Council. Shared Lives is a highly personalised form of care that supports people
